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This phobia is so common in Britain that it now has its own special name, Triskaidekaphobia - a fear of Friday 13.

Friday 13 is classed as an unlucky day for some

In a report by Travelodge, almost 74 per cent of adults say they have experienced bad luck on the date, with 50 per cent of the population also believing in the power of lucky numbers.

After surveying 2,500 people, the report revealed that 40 per cent of Britons are superstitious and will be taking some form of proactive action tomorrow to avoid any form of bad luck coming their way.

This includes:

Not travelling as they fear they could be involved in an accident or long delays

Rescheduling an important meeting to avoid the wrong outcome

Rescheduling their dentist appointment

Avoid making a big purchase like a car

Keeping away from mirrors and ladders

Black cats are linked to superstition

The research also revealed 68 per cent of adults are so superstitious about Friday 13 that they cannot get through the day without some kind of gesture to bring them good luck, including throwing salt over their shoulders, saying good morning to a magpie when it crosses their path and searching for a black cat so that it crosses their path with good luck.

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Travelodge hotel managers also stated that they regularly have customers who will not stay in room 13, with rooms 101 and 666 coming in second and third place.

Why are people scared of Friday 13th?

Since before the time of Jesus Christ, 12 has been considered a "complete number". There are 12 days of Christmas, 12 apostles, 12 eggs in a dozen, 12 months a year and 12 zodiac signs, so it's easy to see where people get their superstitions about the number 13 from.

Saying good morning to a magpie when it crosses your path could bring you luck

Apparently, in the US, $900m is lost every Friday 13th because people are scared to work and travel on this date. In Paris you can even hire a "quatorzieme" a professional 14th guest.